Iran shoots down US drone, tensions rise in the Gulf

(Patria) – Iran shot down a US drone in the Strait of Hormuz, further increasing tensions in the region, world media report.

Iran justifies its move with claims that the US drone entered Iranian airspace. The US military confirmed that the drone was shot down, but claims it was flying in international airspace.

Tensions in the Gulf have further escalated since June 13, when the US accused Iran of attacking two tankers in the Gulf of Oman. The US military showed footage which, they claim, shows the Iranian military removing unexploded mines from the side of one of the tankers.

At the same time, reports are coming in about a missile attack in Saudi Arabia, which is claimed to have come from the Houthi rebels in Yemen, supported by Iran, writes the British Guardian.  

Over the past two weeks, the Houthis in Yemen, who overthrew the internationally recognized government supported by Saudi Arabia in 2014, have intensified missile and drone attacks on Saudi cities.

Saudi Arabia accused Iran of attacking two tankers last week. Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman stated that he 'will not hesitate to confront any threat' to the kingdom's interests, while Iran denied involvement.